Size and weight are big decision factors when you are trying to find the ideal camera for your needs.
In this section, we are going to illustrate the Panasonic FH5 and Panasonic SZ7 side-by-side from the front, back and top in their relative dimensions. Panasonic FH5 has external dimensions of 94 x 54 x 19 mm (3.7 x 2.13 x 0.75″) and weighs 121 g (0.27 lb / 4.27 oz) (including batteries). Panasonic SZ7 has external dimensions of 99 x 59 x 21 mm (3.9 x 2.32 x 0.83″) and weighs 133 g (0.29 lb / 4.69 oz) (including batteries).
Below you can see the front-view size comparison of the Panasonic FH5 and the Panasonic SZ7. Panasonic FH5 is clearly the smaller of the two cameras. Its body is 5mm narrower, 5mm shorter and 2mm thinner than Panasonic SZ7.
Here is the back view size comparison of the Panasonic FH5 and Panasonic SZ7.
Now lets look at the top view comparison of Panasonic FH5 and Panasonic SZ7.
Weight is another important factor, especially when deciding on a camera that you want to carry with you all day.
Panasonic FH5 is 12g lighter than the Panasonic SZ7 but we don't think this will make a significant difference.
Weather Sealing
Unfortunately neither the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH5 (Lumix DMC-FS18) nor Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ7 provides any type of weather sealing in their bodies, so you have to give extra care especially when you are shooting outdoors. If weather sealing is a must-have feature for you, check these sections: Top Compact Cameras with Weather Sealing
LCD Screen Size and Features
Panasonic SZ7's 3.00" LCD screen is slightly larger than Panasonic FH5's 2.7" screen.
Unfortunately, both cameras has fixed screens so they don't tilt or flip in directions.